I am advised:
Major features of the bypass have changed significantly since the 2014 estimated cost of the project was released.
These changes will improve traffic conditions and safety for all road users. They have been made based on community consultation and feedback, and following detailed investigations.
Changes to the design which have affected the cost estimate include:
- introduction of a bridge to allow free flow of the Jesmond cycleway
- upgrade to the John Hunter Hospital interchange to a full interchange with ramps in both directions
- upgrade of the northern interchange from a roundabout on Newcastle Road to an offset signalised interchange
- upgrade of the southern interchange to provide improved cyclist connectivity
- introduction of a shared path bridge over Newcastle Road
- new retaining walls at the southern interchange following geotechnical investigations
- increased ground treatment cost due to historical mining
- increased earthworks cost due to identification of coal and other poor materials during geotechnical investigations.
- increased construction duration due to the additional and upgraded infrastructure.
